Interview: Actress and Singer Samantha Gangal

The 14-year-old has appeared in national commercials, including General Motors and Disney, acted on DreamWorks TV, and modeled for companies like IzzyBe Clothing and Un Deux Trois.

Image: Samantha Gangal

Samantha’s also a singer, and she’s taken the stage from her YouTube channel to the Rock Your Hair Charlotte concert, where she opened for well-known teen performers like Annie LeBlanc and Brooke Butler.

Everly Mag: How did you get your start in acting and singing?

Samantha: I got my start from doing a talent showcase in Orlando. When I was 8 years old, I participated in a theater production of Annie, Jr. I was hooked after that. I started by winning the showcase in Florida, and then signing with a manager and agent in Los Angeles. I booked a commercial for Duracell batteries shortly after I got to LA. When I first started [going] to LA, I was so excited. I couldn’t wait to see what I could accomplish!

Image: Samantha Gangal

Everly Mag: What’s your favorite acting role so far?

Samantha: My favorite role was when I played a student on a DreamWorks TV comedy called Boy Band Billy.

At the time, it was very rare for me to be in a project with other kids, so it was really fun. The script was pretty hilarious, too.

Everly Mag: How about your favorite song to sing?

Samantha: I recorded a cover of Queen’s Bohemian Rhapsody. Really, I’m a huge fan of 70s and 80s music.

Everly Mag: What is your favorite part of performing? What’s the biggest challenge you face?

Samantha: I love working on set with other actors [and] I love being able to play someone else for a little while. The auditions are always the biggest challenge for me. There is so much competition.

Everly Mag: Tell us about your experience on social media.

Samantha: My experience on social media has been really fun so far. I’ve met so many people from around the world [and] been able to connect with so many new friends. The most difficult thing is dealing with some of the inappropriateness that exists.

Image: Samantha Gangal

Everly Mag: What do you hope to do with your social media platform?

Samantha: I would like to use [social media] to be a positive role model and raise awareness for important causes.

Everly Mag: How can teens make social media a better place?

Samantha: The best way is to spread kindness. Build up, [don’t] tear down.

Image: Samantha Gangal Instagram

Everly Mag: What do you do to stay positive and confident?

Samantha: I get positivity and encouragement from [my] friends and family. I’m lucky in that I could not have asked for a better support system. My confidence comes from always being prepared for every performance, acting or singing.